Transforming Understanding: Trent Thompson Co-Facilitates ALRA Training with Aboriginal Affairs NSW

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of co-facilitating Module 3 of the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (ALRA) Education and Training Program, in partnership with Aboriginal Affairs NSW, alongside Uncle Sean Gordon AM, Managing Director of Gidgee Group Consulting. Hosted at The YARP Hub in Liverpool, the session brought together senior leaders from across NSW Government to explore how leadership can truly support the intent and delivery of land rights outcomes for Aboriginal communities.

As Chief Executive Officer of New Track Solutions, I was honoured to play a role in this important program. Our shared aim was to move beyond surface-level engagement and create space for reflection, accountability, and systems-level change.

Trent Thompson opens the session with a call to action—urging government leaders to reflect on their role in delivering meaningful outcomes under the ALRA.

Why This Work Matters

This training series was initiated in response to Recommendation 3 of the 2022 NSW Audit Office Performance Report, which called for improved understanding of the ALRA within public sector agencies. Module 3 marks the culmination of that series—a space specifically designed to explore the structural and cultural barriers that have long prevented the full realisation of land rights.

At the heart of this session was one key question:

“How do we lead in a way that ensures the ALRA delivers real benefits for Aboriginal people?”

This question was not rhetorical—it was a challenge. One that required personal reflection and a collective commitment to doing better.

Facilitating open dialogue, Trent challenges participants to examine the structural and cultural barriers impacting Aboriginal land rights.

Themes and Reflections

Activating Land Through Leadership

We began with a powerful presentation by Melissa Williams, CEO of Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council, who shared insights into the practical challenges of activating lands currently under claim. Her story brought clarity to the disconnect between community ambition and the reality of navigating complex planning laws and siloed government processes.

The Impact of SEPPs and Policy Barriers

A case study discussion explored how State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) can unintentionally stall progress on land development. Participants shared real-world experiences of policy misalignment, delay, and disempowerment—highlighting the urgent need to build culturally safe, agile systems that respond to Aboriginal community needs.

Shifting the Levers of Power

A group exercise encouraged participants to reflect on where power sits within their agencies, and how it might be used more equitably. This was followed by a thought-provoking session titled “A New Way of Doing Business – Your Leadership, Your Legacy”, led by Uncle Sean. The dialogue was honest and necessary—calling for transparency, cultural integrity, and individual accountability in shaping land rights outcomes.

A moment of personal commitment—Trent contributes to a collaborative artwork symbolising unity, legacy, and cultural responsibility.

New Track Solutions: Living Our Purpose

At New Track Solutions, we are committed to embedding Indigenous leadership, truth-telling, and structural reform into the systems that shape our communities. Whether through land claims technology, negotiation support, or infrastructure strategy, our work is always grounded in cultural respect and long-term impact.

Co-facilitating this session in partnership with Aboriginal Affairs NSW was a clear reflection of that purpose. It reinforced our belief that land rights are not just legal or policy matters—they are ongoing negotiations of power, responsibility, and respect.

Through this training, we advanced our commitment to:

• Developing strategic leadership aligned with Indigenous worldviews

• Strengthening relationships between government and Aboriginal stakeholders

• Supporting community-driven approaches to policy and land management

Uncle Sean Gordon shares powerful insights on leadership and legacy, with Trent Thompson standing alongside in support of transformative change.

What’s Next

The insights and conversations sparked during Module 3 won’t stay in the room. Every participant left with a renewed responsibility to apply what they’ve learned in their roles, teams, and institutions.

At New Track Solutions, our contribution continues through:

• Educational tools like our Aboriginal Land Rights 101 series

• Innovative technology solutions for managing and advancing land claims

• Collaborative models such as the Tamworth regional housing trust initiative

The session concludes with a shared moment of pride and reflection. Trent, Uncle Sean, and the attendees stand united in purpose with the completed artwork.

Final Thoughts

Working alongside Uncle Sean and Aboriginal Affairs NSW to deliver this session was more than an event—it was a marker of change. A reminder that business-as-usual is no longer good enough.

If we’re to honour the intent of the ALRA, we must lead with courage, clarity, and culture.

Trent Thompson

Chief Executive Officer

New Track Solutions Pty Ltd